2 unions join fight against NSSF new rules

Two farmers’ trade unions have joined a court fight against the planned increase of workers’ monthly contributions to the National Social Security Fund (NSSF).

The Kenya Tea Growers Association and the Agricultural Employers’ Association yesterday moved to court seeking to have the NSSF Act 2013 declared null and void, claiming that it violates the Constitution and infringes on employees’ rights.

The Act demands that employees raise the monthly contribution from the current Sh200 to a maximum of Sh1,080 and the new rates take effect at the end of this month.

“The new act enhances social security benefits to employed persons but does not provide any benefits to persons unable to support themselves and their dependants,” said Apollo Kiarii of KTGA.

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He added that the repeal of the old act and the passage into law of the new act were not put to public debate, which he claims also violates the constitution.

Yesterday, High Court Judge Mumbi Ngugi denied the petitioners’ prayer to have the enactment of the law postponed to after the matter is heard and determined. She however set the hearing date for July 16.

The County Government and Kenya Quarry and Mine Workers Unions earlier this month took to court to stop the NSSF from implementing the law on employers who already have alternative pension schemes for their employees.